Mindfulness: a mental state achieved by focusing one's awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one's feelings, thoughts, and body sensations, used as a therapeutic technique*.
Mindfulness is extremely contemporary at the moment, and appropriately so; with increasingly hectic and busy lifestyles it's important that we take some time to focus inwardly and find a space and time to be calm and peaceful.
Clinical studies show that mindfulness can help reduce anxiety, exhaustion and insomnia and can enhance the body's natural healing rhythms. It's no secret that crafts like knitting and crochet also have similar effects and can even slow the onset of dementia. So what better way to improve our physical and mental health than by combing the two?
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| Prayer Flag Garland |
I was privileged to be asked to review a copy of Emma Leith's new book, 'Mindful Crochet'. On reading the introduction, Emma explains how crochet has changed her life and that it is '... the doorway to my happy place where pain and anxiety are softened and a state of peaceful acceptance resides ... it doesn't make the bad stuff go away, but can help transform it.'
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| Mindfulness Cowl |
I couldn't agree more with Emma's thinking - I find crochet extremely relaxing (except when trying to wrestle with a particularly difficult pattern, or yarn that just won't do what I ask) and it's my favourite way to wind down after a long day.
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| Prayer Beads Purse |
Emma's book is split into four sections: Colour Therapy, Touch and Texture, Mindful Meditation and Caring and Sharing and has 35 beautiful projects with everything from small motifs and quick makes to larger ones which will take a little longer to complete. There are projects for the home, including bunting and flags, a table runner, a cushion and even a chandelier; and accessories – bag and purse, a desk tidy, shawls and scarves. Each project has a star rating which denotes the skill level required and the instructions are written in UK terms with clear descriptions of how to make the stitches in each round or row and detailed explanations of how to make up and finish each piece.
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| Boho Baskets |
Dotted throughout the book are mindfulness reminders – helpful little tips and hints to put you on the right path as you work through the projects. These include practicing breathing techniques, helping you to focus on achievement and fulfilment and enjoying the rhythm of the stitches.
One thing that strikes me as I flick through the book is the wonderful range of colours popping out from every page – every project is photographed beautifully and looks very inviting. The yarn choices throughout range from cottons and acrylics to sock yarn and mohair. What I particularly like is that you could happily use whatever yarn you please, busting your stash or substituting for your favourite brands.
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| Kaleidoscope Mandala Mat |
I'm thrilled to be able to give away a copy of Emma's lovely book to one lucky blog reader. All you have to do is enter below. The giveaway will end on the 2nd April 2019 and the winner will be notified by email. Entries welcome worldwide.
**** GIVEAWAY CLOSED ****
I'm waiting for a quiet moment in my schedule to have my own moments of mindfulness, but I cannot decide between the Kaleidoscope Mandala Mat or the Summer Sun Coasters ....
Enjoy your week,
Sarah xx
*From online dictionary
I was given a copy of the book in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.